Great Ballads ... Past and Present

Included are three of Tim Laughlin's
original compositions. With guitar master Hank Mackie, Tim Laughlin takes
the "Art of the melody" and makes it his own. It's what he enjoys best.

"Putting out an album of clarinet and guitar duets is a formidable task.
Making it an all-ballad album is audacious. No one in New Orleans has a more
beautiful clarinet sound than Tim Laughlin; as a band mate and as a listener
I've seen many instances of people practically swooning over that juicy tone
of his. Hank Mackie is a fine compliment to Laughlin: inventive and tasteful,
and immersed in the right chords from years teaching hundreds of students,
including Steve Masakowski. While both these guys can swing when necessary,
this is a relentlessly low-key affair, an album of thoughtful, pretty background
music a la Sinatra's "Only the Lonely" or Satie's piano music. Just add a
glass of cognac and a good book."

"Clarinetist Tim Laughlin and guitarist Hank Mackie glide as if in a
dance on this thoughtful gentle album. The music evokes a kinder, romantic
era as the two musicians quietly play classic ballads such as Cole Porter's
"Do I Love You," Billy Strayhorn's "Lotus Blossom" and Eubie Blake's "Memories
of You.""

"This is a somewhat different setting for Laughlin, who is best known for
his high-spirited performing on the New Orleans traditional jazz scene. Without
his usual band behind him, his full tone is at the forefront and fully
appreciated. He reaches down on his horn on "All the Way" with a roundness
that widens the range of the duo."

"One of this city's most esteemed yet under-recognized guitarist, Hank Mackie
also flawless in his execution and in perfect stride with his partner. Mackie's
single notes stroll through Laughlin's melodic verse on "Imagination," weaving
their way without interruption.It almost seems that more musicians have joined
the duo when Mackie begins strumming chords, enlivening the fanciful tune."

"Laughlin's originals remain in a sentimental mood, with "Esplanade" offering
just the suggestions of his - and the city's - traditional roots. Great Ballads
... Past and Present definitely is the antidote for the holiday frenzies.
These two excellent musicians take an exit from life's fast lane to a path
of memories and beautiful music."